Compared to many countries, Albanias number of waiting children
is very small. Families are encouraged to keep their children and
only relinquish them in exceptional economic, family or social circumstances.
There are approximately 10 orphanages in Albania; each one having
only 12-40 children residing there.

As a result, the caregiver to child ratio is very favourable. It
can range from 1:3 to 1:7. Children receive constant attention,
and displays of affection are commonplace. A primary caregiver is
typically the norm, as the staff at each of the orphanages understand
that this promotes attachment and corresponding development. It
is not the case that are children left unattended to because of
insufficient staff or large numbers of children residing there.
Caregivers are able to spend quality time with each child, and the
results are evident in the childrens emotional, physical and
social development. Many of the orphanages receive humanitarian
aid in the form of volunteers from England, France and the United
States, to name a few, as well as social and financial assistance.
All of this translates to the giving of better care, for children
who have lived in an orphanage.

The children that we request are generally quite healthy. Some
children may have minor health issues that are acceptable to you,
i.e. strabismus, allergies, asthma or heart murmur. The age of the
children referred to Adoptionworx Canada, at the time of referral,
are in the 15-30 month range. Our Ministrys legislation states
that a child may not enter the province who is 3 years of age or
older, at the time of arrival. Parents may not indicate a specific
age within the range. Adoptive parents may, however, indicate gender
preference in their application to Albania. This should be clearly
stated in the Ministry homestudy.

Families are encouraged to educate themselves, have realistic expectations,
and read extensively about children whose beginnings have been in
a group setting or orphanage. Bear in mind that these children do
not start their lives in an intact, family setting. However, our
adoptive parents have reported that they were very pleased by what
they observed in the way of emotional care offered at the various
orphanages, and the corresponding development of their child. You
can read about their experiences in our section, "Were
home! -Family Testimonials".

Now, we invite you to take a look at the children of Albania.

Note: These photos are of actual children living in
the orphanages, at the time of photography.
They are not intended to convey availability.
No names or identifying markers will be given, in order to protect
the rights of the children.